In a significant move within London's competitive legal landscape, international law firm Morrison Foerster has recruited a prominent private equity partner from Herbert Smith Freehills. The strategic hire signals MoFo's commitment to expanding its corporate capabilities in the UK market.
Strengthening Private Equity Expertise
Marion Kramer, previously a partner in the private equity team at Herbert Smith Freehills, has joined Morrison Foerster's London office. Kramer brings substantial experience in handling complex transactions for financial sponsors and their portfolio companies across various sectors.
Her practice focuses on leveraged buyouts, mergers and acquisitions, and general corporate advisory work. During her tenure at HSF, Kramer established herself as a respected practitioner in the competitive London private equity market, working with both established sponsors and emerging managers.
Strategic Expansion in Key Market
The recruitment of Kramer represents part of Morrison Foerster's broader strategy to enhance its private equity capabilities in Europe. London serves as a crucial hub for the firm's international private equity practice, complementing its existing strengths in the United States and Asia.
Paul Hastings, London managing partner at Morrison Foerster, emphasised the strategic importance of the hire. "Marion's arrival significantly bolsters our ability to serve private equity clients in the London market and across Europe," he stated. "Her experience with sophisticated financial sponsors aligns perfectly with our growth objectives in this key practice area."
Kramer's appointment follows several strategic hires Morrison Foerster has made in recent years as the firm continues to build out its London corporate practice. The move demonstrates the ongoing competition among international law firms to secure top talent in the lucrative private equity sector.
Market Impact and Future Outlook
The lateral hire market for private equity lawyers in London remains highly active as firms compete for practitioners with strong sponsor relationships. Kramer's move from a UK-headquartered firm to a US-based international practice reflects broader trends in the legal industry.
Private equity remains one of the most active practice areas in the London legal market, with firms continuously seeking to strengthen their teams to handle the steady flow of transactions. The recruitment of experienced partners like Kramer enables firms to compete for higher-value mandates and more complex cross-border deals.
Kramer expressed enthusiasm about her new role, noting the opportunity to work within Morrison Foerster's global platform. "I'm excited to join a firm with such a strong international private equity practice and collaborative culture," she commented. "The platform provides excellent opportunities to serve clients on their most significant cross-border transactions."
The hire is expected to enhance Morrison Foerster's ability to advise on the full lifecycle of private equity investments, from initial acquisitions through portfolio company management and eventual exits. As the private equity market continues to evolve, firms with deep bench strength in this practice area remain well-positioned for growth.
